Open Source Web Applications For Libraries

Interest in open source software has never been stronger, yet a general lack of information about specific tools and benefits along with nagging concerns about dependability and support has hampered adoption in libraries. In Open Source Web Applications for Libraries , authors Coombs and Hollister address these issues and provide librarians with guidance on a range of applications that can be used to improve reference services, instruction, and outreach to library users. In addition to explaining the use, installation, and configuration of such popular resources as WordPress, Drupal, Joomla, and MediaWiki, the authors cover library-specific open source applications such as SubjectsPlus, Blacklight, VuFind, and SOPAC. They compare and contrast the applications, describing key features, strengths, and weaknesses in order to help librarians make informed decisions. Numerous real-world examples illustrate how different types of libraries are using open source web applications today. "Interest in open source software has never been stronger, yet a general lack of information about specific tools and benefits-along with nagging concerns about dependability and support-has hampered adoption in libraries. In Open Source Web Applications for Libraries, authors Coombs and Hollister address these issues and provide librarians with guidance on a range of applications that can be used to improve reference services, instruction, and outreach to library users. In addition to explaining the use, installation, and configuration of such popular resources as Word Press, Drupal, Joomla, and Media Wiki, the authors cover library-specific open source applications such as SubjectsPlus, Blacklight, VuFind, and SOPAC. They compare and contrast the applications, describing key features, strengths, and weaknesses in order to help librarians make informed decisions. Numerous real-world examples illustrate how different types of libraries are using open source web applications today."-- Provided by publisher Coombs and Hollister, both librarians with experience in software and information technologies, present this overview of useful open source software tools for libraries. Beginning with a discussion of web application concepts and open source software, the work progresses through an examination of blog and wiki technologies such as WordPress and MediaWiki and content management systems such as Drupal and Joomla, and concludes with a look at library administration specific technologies like LibData and next generation catalog applications including Vufind and Sciblio. The work provides introductory information and basic set up instructions for each application as well as screen shots and commentary about their best use in a library setting. What is open source software? The LAMP stack Web hosting options WordPress Movable Type PmWiki MediaWiki WordPress as a CMS Joomla Drupal Reference and instruction tools Subject guide tools LibData Federated search tools NextGen catalogs.